WP6 aims
This work package establishes a comprehensive framework for the current state of laser fusion physics, with emphasis on direct-drive shock ignition (WP6.1–WP6.6), while also assessing alternative direct-drive schemes (WP6.7). This is of high importance to define, at the end of the project, updated solutions for the conceptual design following the most promising schemes and implementations.This work package focuses on the theoretical and computational physics of direct-drive implosions, a central component of the project’s strategy.
Task 6.1: Advance theoretical models for instabilities, imprint effect, alpha particle transport, and burn propagation, leading to validated target designs capable of a gain greater than 2 (Q>2).
Task 6.2: Validate new hydrodynamic models against experimental results.
Task 6.3: Model complex laser plasma interactions using integrated fluid-kinetic solvers and benchmark these tools against data from NIF and Omega.
Task 6.4: Perform detailed benchmarking of new 3D radiation hydrodynamics tools against historical data from major international facilities.
Task 6.5: Analyze the interplay between drive asymmetries and Rayleigh-Taylor growth. Train AI-based surrogate models to guide future design iterations.
Task 6.6: Define a new European standard for implosion performance metrics and collaborate internationally to refine capsule geometries.
Task 6.7: Explore and describe alternative approaches to direct drive, such as fast ignition andmagnetized ignition, to broaden the project’s scope and implosion facility design to allow also theirimplementation